Hi All,
How can you tell when someone has hit rock bottom?
My adult son has had a gambling addiction using online casino slots for at least a couple of years.This started following a very traumatic relationship breakdown two years ago.He came back home to live which was only meant to be for a short time.He co parents a 5 year old who he adores and comes to stay with him frequently
He tells me he has stopped and blocked sites etc, but obviously hasn’t.Only time he doesn’t gamble is when he has exhausted any credit sources.His debt that I know about is about £30,000 from Credit Cards ,bank loans,Pay Day loans etc. He recently sold his car to pay debt.He earns a good salary but never has any money.He doesn’t contribute to household bills etc because he has no money.I know I’m enabling him but as a Mum (and Grandma) I can’t turn my back on him.
His mental health is suffering and he is obviously very depressed but won’t talk to me or anyone else.He gets very defensive and angry if I suggest he talks with professionals who have the skills to support him.
I am trying to support him but he obviously doesn’t want any input from me.I have to respect this but it’s hard to watch him continue to self destruct.
I can’t imagine what he’s going through and I am scared about what’s coming next.
I know he has to want and instigate any help.What can I do to support him until then?
Thank you for reading this.
Hi Anon891
Thank you for reaching out on the forum and sharing your story. It sounds as if you and your son are going through a lot right now.
You describe very well the difficulty of knowing that you don’t want to enable him, but also can’t turn your back at the same time, You are not alone in this and many loved ones who experience gambling harm from their loved ones, will be able to relate to lots of what you’ve said here.
Please consider reaching out further for support, advice and information. You already know how complicated things can be and it can help to have some sessions with one of our practitioners to help and support you though some of the questions and guidance you seek in relation to supporting your son, but also importantly being able to get support for yourself . You can ask to be referred into this type of support by a member of our helpline team on 0808 8020 133, or you can refer yourself via this link: Find local support - GamCare. We also have chatrooms for our friends and family members here: Tuesdays at 12pm and Thursdays at 7pm Chatrooms - GamCare
All the best to you
Jane
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